Explained : Sharad Pawar sees no conspiracy in Ajit's death, 'don't bring politics into it'| India News and Its Impact

Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Sharad Pawar sees no conspiracy in Ajit’s death, ‘don’t bring politics into it’| India News and Its Impact and why it matters right now.

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash after Bombardier Aerospaces’ Learjet 45 crashed he was travelling in crashed during landing attempt in Baramati, near Pune district. The 66-year-old leader’s death has not only left a vacuum in the BJP-led state coalition government, but also cast a shadow on the future of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which he headed.

His uncle and NCP founder, Sharad Pawar, has said the plane crash was an accident which shouldn’t be politicised. Meanwhile, tributes have started pouring in and supporters gathering in Baramati, ahead of the funeral on Thursday. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputy Eknath Shinde, earlier in the day, arrived in Baramati and met Sunetra Pawar, wife of the Ajit Pawar, and paid their respects.

Meanwhile, civil aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu has said that the initial report suggests that the visibility was poor when the aircraft attempted landing in Baramati. A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board has left for Baramati to examine the site and begin the probe into the crash, a spokesperson from the ministry of civil aviation said.

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a three-day state mourning over his death and said that he and deputy CM Eknath Shinde are heading to Baramati.

Tributes have poured in from several leaders, including PM Modi, home minister Amit Shah, Pawar’s co-deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi.

His wife Sunetra Pawar and his sister Supriya Sule are heading to Baramati.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah spoke to Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadanvis to get details and updates on the situation.

Ajit Pawar’s funeral on Thursday; PM Modi, Shah likely to attend

The last rites of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar will be held with full state honours on Thursday in Baramati, Pune district. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to attend the funeral, which will be held at Vidya Pratishthan ground at 11 am. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has declared a public holiday on Wednesday and announced a three-day period of state mourning.

PM Modi calls Pawar’s death ‘deeply shocking’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash was untimely and deeply shocking. In a post on X, Modi described Pawar as a leader of the people who had a strong connection at the grassroots level.

“Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra.

Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, Rahul Gandhi react

Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said that he and deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde are heading to Baramati, and that the further course of action will be decided after speaking with Ajit Pawar’s family.

He also announced a state mourning of three days over Ajit Pawar’s death. Today has also been declared a holiday in the state to mourn the loss.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde said on Wednesday that the death of his fellow Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was tragic and regrettable. He added that the aircraft crash that took Pawar’s life will be investigated.

While speaking to the media, Shinde praised Pawar’s work, noting that they had served together in different cabinets and that Pawar was also his deputy when Shinde led the government from 2022 to 2024.

LoP in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed sorrow over the death of Ajit Pawar and four others who were on board the chartered flight from Mumbai to Baramati that crashed earlier in the day.

“The news of the demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Ji and his fellow travellers in an airplane accident today is extremely heartbreaking. In this moment of grief, I stand with the people of Maharashtra. I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and their loved ones during this hour of sorrow,” the Lok Sabha LoP wrote on X.

How did Ajit Pawar die?

The mishap happened in the morning when Ajit Pawar was arriving in his hometown to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad polls.

Pawar was heading to Baramati to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad elections when the incident occurred.

Sharing details of the plane crash, Baramati airport manager Shivaji Taware told Hindustan Times, “The aircraft VT SSK was attempting a landing, and the aircraft went off the side of the runway and crashed.” He said the aircraft was a Learjet 45 that had been chartered from Mumbai.

Who else was on board with Ajit Pawar?

According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), four people were present inside the aircraft, apart from deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.

Pilots Sumit Kapoor and Shambhavi Pathak accompanied Pawar on his Lear jet 45, VT-SSK aircraft which crashed in Baramati.

Mumbai PSO HC and Pawar’s security staff Vidhit Jadhav along with flight attendant Pinky Mali were also on board the aircraft.

All about Learjet 45

Pawar was flying onboard an civil aircraft that has had a patchy track record. The plane, according to the DGCA, was Learjet 45 model with registration number VT-SSK and crashed at Baramati Airport in Pune at 8:45 am on Wednesday.

Attention has turned to a 2023 aviation accident involving the same aircraft model: the Bombardier Learjet 45XR.

It’s important to note that while the make of the aircraft was the same, the 2023 runway incursion in Mumbai involved a different small jet. Pawar was travelling in a Learjet 45 aircraft with the registration label VT-SSK. The aircraft involved in the earlier accident had the registration lable VT-DBL.

Ajit Pawar’s legacy

Ajit Pawar was the longest-serving deputy chief minister of Maharashtra non-consecutively. He served in the position for six terms within various governments. He had worked as deputy chief minister in the cabinets of Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde.

He entered the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1991 from the Baramati Parliamentary constituency and later gave up the seat for his uncle, Sharad Pawar. He has won the Baramati Assembly constituency seven times. His first victory came in a 1991 by-election, followed by wins in 1995, 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014.

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His uncle and NCP founder, Sharad Pawar, has said the plane crash was an accident which shouldn’t be politicised. Meanwhile, tributes have started pouring in and supporters gathering in Baramati, ahead of the funeral on Thursday. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and his deputy Eknath Shinde, earlier in the day, arrived in Baramati and met Sunetra Pawar, wife of the Ajit Pawar, and paid their respects.

Meanwhile, civil aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu has said that the initial report suggests that the visibility was poor when the aircraft attempted landing in Baramati. A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board has left for Baramati to examine the site and begin the probe into the crash, a spokesperson from the ministry of civil aviation said.

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a three-day state mourning over his death and said that he and deputy CM Eknath Shinde are heading to Baramati.

Tributes have poured in from several leaders, including PM Modi, home minister Amit Shah, Pawar’s co-deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi.

His wife Sunetra Pawar and his sister Supriya Sule are heading to Baramati.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah spoke to Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadanvis to get details and updates on the situation.

Ajit Pawar’s funeral on Thursday; PM Modi, Shah likely to attend

The last rites of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar will be held with full state honours on Thursday in Baramati, Pune district. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to attend the funeral, which will be held at Vidya Pratishthan ground at 11 am. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has declared a public holiday on Wednesday and announced a three-day period of state mourning.

PM Modi calls Pawar’s death ‘deeply shocking’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash was untimely and deeply shocking. In a post on X, Modi described Pawar as a leader of the people who had a strong connection at the grassroots level.

“Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra.

Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, Rahul Gandhi react

Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said that he and deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde are heading to Baramati, and that the further course of action will be decided after speaking with Ajit Pawar’s family.

He also announced a state mourning of three days over Ajit Pawar’s death. Today has also been declared a holiday in the state to mourn the loss.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde said on Wednesday that the death of his fellow Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was tragic and regrettable. He added that the aircraft crash that took Pawar’s life will be investigated.

While speaking to the media, Shinde praised Pawar’s work, noting that they had served together in different cabinets and that Pawar was also his deputy when Shinde led the government from 2022 to 2024.

LoP in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi expressed sorrow over the death of Ajit Pawar and four others who were on board the chartered flight from Mumbai to Baramati that crashed earlier in the day.

“The news of the demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Ji and his fellow travellers in an airplane accident today is extremely heartbreaking. In this moment of grief, I stand with the people of Maharashtra. I extend my condolences to the entire Pawar family and their loved ones during this hour of sorrow,” the Lok Sabha LoP wrote on X.

How did Ajit Pawar die?

The mishap happened in the morning when Ajit Pawar was arriving in his hometown to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad polls.

Pawar was heading to Baramati to address four public meetings ahead of the Zilla Parishad elections when the incident occurred.

Sharing details of the plane crash, Baramati airport manager Shivaji Taware told Hindustan Times, “The aircraft VT SSK was attempting a landing, and the aircraft went off the side of the runway and crashed.” He said the aircraft was a Learjet 45 that had been chartered from Mumbai.

Who else was on board with Ajit Pawar?

According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), four people were present inside the aircraft, apart from deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.

Pilots Sumit Kapoor and Shambhavi Pathak accompanied Pawar on his Lear jet 45, VT-SSK aircraft which crashed in Baramati.

Mumbai PSO HC and Pawar’s security staff Vidhit Jadhav along with flight attendant Pinky Mali were also on board the aircraft.

All about Learjet 45

Pawar was flying onboard an civil aircraft that has had a patchy track record. The plane, according to the DGCA, was Learjet 45 model with registration number VT-SSK and crashed at Baramati Airport in Pune at 8:45 am on Wednesday.

Attention has turned to a 2023 aviation accident involving the same aircraft model: the Bombardier Learjet 45XR.

It’s important to note that while the make of the aircraft was the same, the 2023 runway incursion in Mumbai involved a different small jet. Pawar was travelling in a Learjet 45 aircraft with the registration label VT-SSK. The aircraft involved in the earlier accident had the registration lable VT-DBL.

Ajit Pawar’s legacy

Ajit Pawar was the longest-serving deputy chief minister of Maharashtra non-consecutively. He served in the position for six terms within various governments. He had worked as deputy chief minister in the cabinets of Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde.

He entered the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1991 from the Baramati Parliamentary constituency and later gave up the seat for his uncle, Sharad Pawar. He has won the Baramati Assembly constituency seven times. His first victory came in a 1991 by-election, followed by wins in 1995, 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014.

Follow all the updates here:

Jan 28, 2026 7:54:37 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Indian Air Force takes control of ATC at Baramati airport

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken over the Air Traffic Control (ATC) of the Baramati airport. The ATC at Baramati was managed by two flying schools- Redbird Flight Training Academy and Carver Aviation.

Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal said that he spoke to Indian Air Force and asked them to take over the ATC of Baramati airport as the state owned Baramati airport has no proper ATC. The IAF took over the ATC and the airport late on Wednesday evening.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to reach Baramati and PM Narendra Modi is also likely to visit. Chief Ministers of several states are also expected to land in Baramati to attend Pawar’s last rites.

Jan 28, 2026 7:47:10 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: What Sharad Pawar said on ‘conspiracies’ around Ajit Pawar’s death?

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar on Wednesday rubbished political remarks around Ajit Pawar’s plane crash and said the incident shouldn’t be politicised.

Calling his death an “irreparable loss”, the elder Pawar said Ajit’s death was a big shock for Maharashtra, which has lost a hardworking and efficient leader. “Not all things are in our hands,” he added.

In an apparent reference to Mamata Banerjee’s remark, he said, “A stand was floated from Kolkata that there is some politics involved in this incident. But there is nothing like this. There is no politics in it. It was an accident. I request not to bring politics into it.” Banerjee has demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the death of Ajit Pawar, alleging that “all other agencies” have been “completely compromised”.

Jan 28, 2026 7:39:13 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Aviation minister Naidu lands in Hyderabad, conducts meeting with DGCA chief

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu is conducting a meeting with Samir Kumar Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and DGCA DG Faiz Ahmed Kidwai in Hyderabad.

Jan 28, 2026 7:30:06 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Goa CM Pramod Sawant says ‘I’ve lost a close friend’

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant condoled Ajit Pawar’s death and called him as a close friend and a visionary leader who made significant contributions to the state.

Speaking to reporters, CM Sawant said, “Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was a very close friend of mine. I express my condolences on behalf of the Goa government and the people of Goa. We have lost a visionary leader who made a significant contribution to Maharashtra. I have lost a close friend. He had made immense contributions and worked tirelessly for Maharashtra for many years.”

Jan 28, 2026 7:24:24 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP organises condolence meet in Delhi following Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Following the demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, a condolence meeting was organised at the party’s Central Office in the national capital. NCP passed a condolence resolution, according to a press statement from the Delhi office. The meeting was attended by a large number of the Party’s national office-bearers, the President of the Delhi State Unit, other officials, and party workers, who observed a two-minute silence in prayer for eternal peace.

Jan 28, 2026 6:56:15 PM IST

Sharad Pawar sees no conspiracy in Ajit’s death: ‘Don’t bring politics into it’

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar on Wednesday called Ajit Pawar’s death an “irrecoverable loss” for Maharashtra. Speaking to reporters, Pawar said, “This is an accident, please don’t bring politics in it.”

The remark comes after West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the death of Pawar, alleging that “all other agencies” have been “completely compromised”.

Jan 28, 2026 6:47:25 PM IST

Ajit Pawar’s death big loss to Maharashtra’s politics, say RSS leaders

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leaders condoled the death of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash, calling it a major loss to the state’s political and social spheres, and hailed his public life as impactful. RSS General Secretary (Sarkaryawah) Dattatreya Hosabale said in a post on X, “The sudden demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar ji today in an airplane accident is extremely unfortunate and heartbreaking.”

“Pawar’s public life has been long and impactful. The RSS offers him a heartfelt tribute and prays to God to grant peace to his soul,” he added.

Jan 28, 2026 6:42:13 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Ajit Pawar could speak to truth clearly, says Nawab Malik

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP leader Nawab Malik expressed his condolences over Ajit Pawar’s death and said that the NCP chief was such a leader who would clearly speak the truth. Calling him a “secular” leader, Malik said that Pawar’s passing was an “irreparable loss”.

“Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash this morning, this is a sad incident for us, the people of Maharashtra are mourning. The kind of rapport I used to have with him, who used to stand with us in adverse times, my family can’t forget. He was such a leader who would speak the truth clearly, I would say that a secular leader has gone away from us, it is an irreparable loss, we are with his family… People will remember the work done by him. The last rites will be conducted at 11 am tomorrow, the funeral procession will start at 9 am,” Malik said.

Jan 28, 2026 6:28:55 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Supriya Sule pays respects to cousin Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule arrived at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati to pay her respects to her late cousin Ajit Pawar, who was killed in a crash this morning. CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde were present at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati.

Meanwhile, Sunetra Pawar broke down while meeting members of the Pawar family after the untimely demise of her husband in a charter plane crash that claimed four more lives.

Jan 28, 2026 6:25:04 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Pilot Shambhavi Pathak and cabin crew Pinky Mali among 5 killed

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Two young women, cabin crew member Pinky Mali, 29, and pilot-in-command Captain Shambhavi Pathak, were among the five people killed when a chartered Learjet 45 carrying Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar crashed on Wednesday morning. Pinky Mali, a Mumbai-based cabin crew member, lived with her family in Worli and was on duty for the chartered flight. Originally from Bhainsa village in Jaunpur district of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Pinky had completed her schooling and higher education in Thane before joining the aviation sector. Read more

Jan 28, 2026 6:03:01 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: ‘Absolutely no problem in the aircraft’, says VSR Aviation owner

Ajit Pawar death news updates: VSR Aviation owner, VK Singh, on Wednesday said no to grounding of its Learjet 45 planes after an aircraft of same model crashed and killed Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar and four others in Baramati. Singh said there is ‘absolutely no problem in the aircraft’ and theorised that the pilot could not see the runway, which is why he made a missed approach to land. Read full story here

Jan 28, 2026 5:27:21 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Neighbours remember affable nature of security officer Jadhav, victim of Baramati crash

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Shock and grief swept through Vitawa locality in Thane’s Kalwa area as the news broke that Vidip Jadhav, a security officer to Ajit Pawar, was among the five people killed in the Baramati crash.

Jadhav, a long-time resident of Vitawa, is survived by his parents, a 14-year-old daughter, and a nine-year-old son. His parents were away at their native place when the tragedy struck, and the family has since rushed to Baramati.

Jan 28, 2026 5:04:10 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Fadnavis, Shinde pay last respects to Ajit Pawar in Baramati

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde arrived at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati to pay their last respects to the late Ajit Pawar. Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat was also present to pay his respects. Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, along with NCP working president Praful Patel, Maharashtra NCP president Sunil Tatkare, and State Minister Hasan Mushrif, reached Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati to pay their last respects to the late Deputy Chief Minister.

Jan 28, 2026 4:54:27 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde reach Baramati, last rites tomorrow

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and several other leaders have arrived in Baramati. The last rites of Ajit Pawar will be performed in Baramati at 11:00 am on Wednesday.

Jan 28, 2026 4:42:21 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra ministers arrive at Baramati Airport

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Pankaja Munde, Girish Mahajan, and others arrive at Baramati Airport.

Jan 28, 2026 4:37:02 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash: Multiple landing attempts, go-around, clearance, then crash

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar was cleared for landing at Baramati airport after multiple attempts, but having finally received landing clearance it did not give any ‘read-back’ or response to the ATC. The aircraft, Learjet 45, burst moments later into flames on the edge of the runway.

Here is a sequence of events leading to the crash of the ill-fated plane:

  • The aircraft VI-SSK first came in contact at 8.18 am, as per the Baramati Air Traffic Control (ATC).
  • The next call was at 30 nautical miles inbound to Baramati. It was advised to descend in “visual meteorological conditions” at the pilot’s discretion.
  • The crew then enquired about the winds and visibility, and were informed that the winds were calm and visibility was around 3,000 metres
  • A civil aviation ministry statement said that the aircraft reported on the final approach of Runway 11 and the runway was not in sight to them. “They initiated a go-around in the first approach,” it said.
  • After the go-around, the crew was again asked if they could spot the runway. The reply was: “Runway is currently not in sight, will call when runway is in sight”.
  • After a few seconds, the crew reported that they could spot the runway. “The aircraft was cleared to land on runway 11 at 0843 IST (8.43 am). However, they did not give a readback of the landing clearance (did not respond to ATC). Next, the ATC saw the flames around the threshold of runway 11 at 0844 IST (8.44 am),” the statement said.
  • The emergency services then rushed to the crash site, but it was too late. Baramati has an ‘uncontrolled airfield’, and traffic information was provided by the instructors/pilots from the Flying training Organisations at Baramati.

Jan 28, 2026 4:29:06 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Sunetra Pawar breaks down as family mourns Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Sunetra Pawar, wife of party chief Ajit Pawar, broke down while meeting members of the Pawar family after the untimely demise of the Deputy CM in a charter plane crash that claimed four more lives. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, late Ajit Pawar’s cousin, was also seen deeply emotional as family members gathered to mourn the loss. Pawar is survived by his wife, Sunetra Pawar and two sons, Jay and Parth Pawar.

Jan 28, 2026 4:26:51 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Mamata Banerjee demands SC-monitored probe into Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has demanded an investigation monitored by the Supreme Court into Ajit Pawar’s death in a plane crash at Baramati. The Bengal CM has also raised questions purportedly linking the incident to his political trajectory. “I am deeply shocked to hear the news of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s death in a plane crash this morning. Even political leaders are not safe in this country, let alone common people. Two days ago, I came to know that someone from another party had given a statement that Pawar was willing to leave the BJP, and now this has happened today. I demand a proper investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court. We have trust only in the Supreme Court and no other agency. All agencies have been completely compromised. It is truly a great loss. Today he is in the opposition, but tomorrow he was supposed to return to the original course of his party. My condolences to his family, the people of Maharashtra, and to Sharad Pawar,” Mamata said.

Jan 28, 2026 4:15:35 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Kharge demands probe into Ajit Pawar plane crash

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said there should be a probe into the air crash involving Ajit Pawar. The Learjet 46, operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures, crash-landed at the Baramati airport. There were five people on board, including the crew members, according to DGCA. Kharge said Pawar’s death was untimely and he was someone who worked for the people. “This has hurt everyone, including his family members, and we share their grief and pray that they can bear this loss,” Kharge told reporters.

Jan 28, 2026 3:55:57 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Gadkari says Ajit Pawar’s death irreplaceable loss to nation

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Union minister Nitin Gadkari and several other leaders expressed shock over the untimely death of Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar, describing it as an irreplaceable loss not just for the state but for the entire nation. Gadkari said he shared a very close personal bond with Pawar. In a post on X, Gadkari said the news of Pawar’s untimely demise in the accident is extremely shocking, unfortunate, and heartbreaking.

Jan 28, 2026 3:51:44 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP’s future at stake after Ajit Pawar’s death?

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The tragic and untimely demise of Ajit Pawar has not only left a vacuum in the BJP-led state coalition government, but also cast a shadow on NCP’s future. The NCP is likely to face a leadership crisis following Ajit Pawar’s death, as there is no clear second-in-command, PTI quoted political observers as saying. As the ‘clock’ symbol lost its undisputed leader, questions loomed over the party’s survival and its future equation with founder Sharad Pawar. There has also been speculation whether the NCP might reunite with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP), especially as ties between the factions have softened in recent months.

Jan 28, 2026 3:48:07 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Lok Sabha pays tributes to Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Lok Sabha on Wednesday paid respect to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and five of its former members who passed away recently. As soon as the House met after the President’s address to the joint sitting, the secretary general laid copies of the address. Speaker Om Birla read out obituary references on Pawar, former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia, Shalini Patil, Bhanu Prakash Mirdha, Satyendra Nath Brohmo Chaudhury, Suresh Kalmadi and Kabindra Purkayastha. The House was then adjourned for the day.

Jan 28, 2026 3:36:49 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: What PM Modi told Sharad Pawar on Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: PM Modi spoke to NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar and expressed condolences at the death of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, in an air crash in Baramati.

“The prime minister spoke to Sharad Pawar on the sad demise of Ajit Pawar and expressed his condolences,” officials said.

Ajit Pawar was among the five killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed in Baramati on Wednesday morning. Earlier in the day, Modi called Ajit Pawar as a leader of the people with a strong grassroots-level connect and termed his death untimely and very shocking.

“Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

“His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti,” he added.

Jan 28, 2026 3:25:28 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Ajit Pawar’s last rites at 11 am on Thursday; PM Modi, Shah to attend

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The last rites of Maharashtra Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar will be conducted at 11 am on Thursday at Vidya Pratishthan ground in Baramati. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are likely to attend.

Jan 28, 2026 3:18:18 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: PM Modi speaks to Sharad Pawar on Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar on the demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and expressed his condolences, ANI reported.

Jan 28, 2026 3:08:37 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: AAIB team leaves for Baramati

Ajit Pawar death news updates: An Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) team has left for Baramati to investigate the plane crash, which killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said.

A special team of the AAIB will investigate the aircraft crash and retrieve the flight recorder, Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) and Digital Engine Electronic System (DEES). The team will also gather airframe and engine logbooks, work orders, on-board documents, and major inspection records related to the aircraft for scrutiny.

Jan 28, 2026 2:57:38 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Lok Sabha makes obituary reference to demise of Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday made an obituary reference to Ajit Pawar’s demise. Pawar was the Baramati MP in Lok Sabha in 1991. He later vacated the seat for his uncle, Sharad Pawar.

Fadanvis has announced a state holiday and three days of mourning. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, CM Fadanvis said that the decision on Pawar’s last rites will be made after consulting his family.

Jan 28, 2026 2:47:55 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Civil Aviation Minister says preliminary report suggests low visibility

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has said that preliminary information based on the conversation between the ATC and pilots suggest that visibility was poor when the plane attempted landing in Baramati.

Jan 28, 2026 2:40:21 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: ‘Steadfast leader and excellent colleague’, Uddhav Thackeray remembers deputy CM

Ajit Pawar death news updates: In a statement posted on X, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief remembered deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar as a “steadfast leader and excellent colleague.”

“When I was the chief minister, Ajit Pawar was the deputy chief minister and finance minister. He was an extremely disciplined leader with a firm grip on his department and a deep understanding of the finance department. We developed a special bond as excellent colleagues. Ajit Pawar was open-hearted. He would speak his mind. He was not one to hold grudges for long. Even though he chose a different path in politics, he did not let our relationship break,” a rough translation of the post in Marathi read.

He added, “In Maharashtra, he was popular as ‘Dada.’ I never thought he would leave so soon. He was known as a leader who cherished his workers. His departure has created a void in the state’s leadership. In every sense, he was truly ‘Dada.’ On behalf of myself, ‘Thackeray,’ and the Shiv Sena family, my heartfelt tribute to Dada!”

Jan 28, 2026 2:34:38 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Supriya Sule ‘devastated’ after ‘Dada’ Ajit Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: NCP (SP) leader and Pawar’s cousin Supriya Sule on Wednesday expressed shock and grief over the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister describing herself as “devastated”.

In a message posted on WhatsApp status, she wrote: ‘Devastated (sic)”.

Jan 28, 2026 2:23:02 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Sequence of events that led to deputy CM’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: The government on Wednesday released a statement indicating the series of events linked to the plane crash in Baramati that claimed the life of Ajit Pawar and four others.

Here’s what really happened:

  • On January 28, 2026, the aircraft VI-SSK first came in contact with Baramati at 08:18 am.
  • The aircraft’s next call was at 30 NM inbound to Baramati, and they were released by Pune approach. They were advised to descend in Visual Meteorological Conditions at the pilot’s discretion.
  • The crew enquired about the winds and visibility, and they were informed that the winds were calm and visibility was around 3,000 metres.
  • Next, the aircraft reported on the final approach of Runway 11, and the runway was not in sight to them. They initiated a go-around on the first approach.
  • After the go-around, the aircraft was asked about its position, and the crew reported being on the final approach of Runway 11.
  • They were asked to report the runway in sight. They replied, “Runway is currently not in sight, will call when runway is in sight.” After a few seconds, they reported that the runway was in sight.
  • The aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 11 at 08:43 IST. However, they did not give a readback of the landing clearance.
  • Next, the ATC saw flames around the threshold of Runway 11 at 08:44 IST. The emergency services then rushed to the crash site.
  • The wreckage of the aircraft is located on the left side of the runway, abeam threshold R/W 11.

Jan 28, 2026 2:18:42 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Deputy CM’s wife, sister Supriya Sule arrive in Baramati

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra deputy chief minister’s wife Sunetra Pawar, sister Supriya Sule have arrive in Baramati, where the crash involving the NCP leader took place.

Pawar (66) and four others were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed near Baramati in Pune district on Wednesday morning.

Jan 28, 2026 2:10:08 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates:Mamata Banerjee demands SC-monitored probe

Ajit Pawar death news updates: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the death of Ajit Pawar in a place crash, alleging that “all other agencies” have been “completely compromised”.

“Even political leaders are not safe in this country, let alone common people. Two days ago, I came to know that someone from another party had given a statement that Pawar was willing to leave the BJP, and now this has happened today,” she told reporters before leaving for Singur.

“We trust only the Supreme Court. All other agencies have been completely compromised,” she added.

Jan 28, 2026 1:59:55 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: ‘Politicians must be careful while travelling’, says Shivakumar

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday said he was shocked by the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and described it as a “huge loss”. He urged leaders to be more careful while travelling, especially when going abroad.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said the news had deeply unsettled him. “Ajit Pawar’s death is shocking. I was also shocked to hear the news of his death. We as politicians, should be very careful. We should be careful while travelling abroad. We have lost many leaders like this,” he said.

Jan 28, 2026 1:54:08 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: ‘Dada has left us’, says chief minister Fadnavis

Ajit Pawar death news updates: In a post remembering deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis said, “Dada has left us! The news of the death of Ajitdada Pawar, the people’s leader with a deep connection to the land, my friend and colleague, the deputy chief minister, in a plane crash is extremely heartbreaking. It is a shock to the soul. The mind is numb. I have no words to express my emotions.”

“I have lost my strong and generous friend. This is a personal loss for me. This is a loss that can never be compensated. Today is an extremely difficult day for Maharashtra.”

He added, “We share the grief of his entire family and the NCP family. Four other people also died in this accident. We share the grief of their families as well.”

Jan 28, 2026 1:45:53 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Lok Sabha pays tributes to Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Lok Sabha on Wednesday paid respect to Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. Apart from Pawar, it also mourned the loss of former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia and five of its former members who passed away recently.

Speaker Om Birla read out obituary references on Pawar, Zia, Shalini Patil, Bhanu Prakash Mirdha, Satyendra Nath Brohmo Chaudhury, Suresh Kalmadi and Kabindra Purkayastha.

Jan 28, 2026 1:38:23 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: CCTV captures moment Baramati crash happened, shocking visuals surface

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: CCTV visuals shared by news agency PTI capture the moment a chartered aircraft carrying Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar crashed at Baramati Airport.

Pawar (66) and four other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed near Baramati in Pune district of Maharashtra on Wednesday morning. He was traveling to his hometown Baramati from Mumbai to address public meetings.

Jan 28, 2026 1:35:31 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Jaishankar mourns loss, says ‘deeply saddened’

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: External affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, posted on X expressing grief over the death of Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash.

“Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His contributions to Maharashtra’s progress and development will always be remembered. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”

Jan 28, 2026 1:27:50 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: BJP president Nitin Nabin reacts to Pawar’s death, calls him ‘son of Maharashtra’

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Reacting to the death of Maharashtra deputy CM Ajit Pawar, BJP national president Nitin Nabin expressed his condolences.

“Ajit Pawar was the son of Maharashtra. Today, the entire political world is saddened by his demise. We express our sympathies with his family.”

Jan 28, 2026 1:21:17 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: All you need to know about Learjet 45

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Here’s what you need to know about Learjet 45, which crashed in Baramati at about 8.50 am, according to Flightradar24:

  • Made by Bombardier Aerospace, Learjet 45, introduced in 1998, is described as ‘a mid-size business jet with two engines.
  • The jet has the capacity to accommodate up to 8 passengers and two crew members and has swivel seats that can recline into work tables, according to blade.com.
  • Learjet 45 is operated by VSR Ventures, a Delhi-based entity with its office in Mahipalpur area, and also has operations in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bhopal. The company was founded in 2009, according to LinkedIn.
  • VSR’s top official, VK Singh, was quoted as saying by Aaj Tak that the aircraft was completely safe, and the crew was fairly experienced. He said the crash could have been caused by poor visibility.

Jan 28, 2026 1:12:59 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Investigation team leaves for Baramati to begin probe

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board has departed from Delhi to Pune and then to Baramati to examine the site and begin the probe into the crash, a spokesperson from the ministry of civil aviation told HT.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board is on the way to Hyderabad Airport to catch a flight to Mumbai.

Ajit Pawar, a key political figure in Maharashtra, was travelling in a Bombardier Learjet 45 aircraft, operated by VSR Aviation.

Jan 28, 2026 1:05:15 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Flightradar24 shows final loop of Learjet 45

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Flightradar24 has released the tracking data for the Learjet 45 that crashed in Maharashtra on Wednesday morning, leading to the deaths of 5 people including deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.

“Indian media reporting the crash of a business jet this morning has claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and 4 others. The aircraft was attempting a second approach to Baramati Airport when it crashed,” Flightradar24 tweeted.

Jan 28, 2026 1:00:04 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: What’s closed as Maharashtra announces 3-day mourning?

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: The Maharashtra government on Wednesday declared three days of state mourning across the state as a mark of respect to deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash, officials said.

  • As per the government’s instructions, state mourning will be observed from January 28 to January 30, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where it is flown regularly.
  • There will be no official entertainment during the mourning period, it said.
  • The department further declared that all state government offices across Maharashtra will remain closed on Wednesday on account of the demise of the deputy chief minister.
  • The message, issued under the signature of Under Secretary H P Baviskar, directed all authorities concerned to take necessary action immediately and ensure strict compliance with the instructions.

Jan 28, 2026 12:56:11 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Pune Rural SP Sandeep Singh on Lear Jet 45 crash

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Speaking to news agency ANI about the crash, Pune Rural SP Sandeep Singh said,” The aircraft carrying 5 people crashed just before landing at around 8:40 am today. Five people have died in this incident, and their bodies have been brought to the hospital here. We will provide an update after the bodies are identified. An expert team is present at the crash site.”

Jan 28, 2026 12:42:57 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Riteish Deshmukh ‘deeply shocked’ over Pawar’s death

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Actor Riteish Deshmukh on Wednesday expressed sorrow over the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, saying the sudden loss of the NCP leader had left him “deeply shocked” and “heartbroken.”

“Deeply shocked and terribly heartbroken to learn that we have lost Ajit Dada in a tragic accident. One of Maharashtra’s most dynamic leaders, he had zero tolerance for non-performance and constantly pushed and inspired those around him to excel,” he wrote on X.

Jan 28, 2026 12:35:38 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Huge crowd gathers outside Baramati hospital

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: A large crowd has gathered outside the Baramati hospital after the mortal remains of Maharashtra deputy chief minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were brought there, visuals shared by news agency ANI showed.

He died in a plane crash while travelling from Mumbai to Baramati earlier this morning.

Jan 28, 2026 12:20:00 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Eyewitness shares details of crash, says ‘aircraft appeared unstable’

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Pawar, 66, and four other persons were killed after an aircraft carrying them crashed near his hometown Baramati in Pune district on Wednesday morning, officials said.

One witness told ANI that the aircraft appeared unstable as it descended before it hit the ground and went up in flames. “There was a massive explosion. After that, we rushed here and saw that the aircraft was on fire. There were 4-5 explosions in the aircraft again,” he said.

Residents nearby ran towards the area to try to help those on board, but the heat from the fire stopped many from getting close. The witness said the moment was distressing, adding that the intensity of the blast and the flames left people stranded, unable to do anything.

Jan 28, 2026 12:13:03 PM IST

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: What Fadnavis said on Maharashtra deputy CM’s death

Ajit Pawar plane crash live updates: Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said: “This morning, a very tragic incident occurred. In extremely unforeseen circumstances, the news of the unfortunate demise of our state’s deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar, in an aircraft accident reached everyone, spreading a wave of grief across Maharashtra.”

He added, “For Maharashtra, today is an extremely difficult day. Such leadership takes many years to develop, and at a time when he was making very significant contributions to the state’s development, his passing is both unbelievable and shocking. Personally, I have lost a strong and generous friend. This is also an enormous loss for his family.”

Jan 28, 2026 12:04:37 PM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Fadnavis announces three-day state mourning for deputy CM

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Speaking to reporters, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said that he and deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde are heading to Baramati, and that the further course of action will be decided after speaking with Ajit Pawar’s family.

He also announced a state mourning of three days over Ajit Pawar’s death. Today has also been declared a holiday in the state to mourn the loss.

Jan 28, 2026 11:59:09 AM IST

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Plane crash will be probed, says Eknath Shinde

Ajit Pawar death news updates: Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde said that the plane crash in Baramati will be probed.

Pawar was travelling to Baramati from Mumbai to address public meetings as part of the campaign for the February 5 zilla parishad elections in the state, they added.